Page 1 of 1 Ford's answer to the Chevrolet Corvette launched in 1953 was the Thunderbird. A first prototype was shown on the 1954 Detroit Motorshow and production commenced nine months later, on September 9th 1954.

The first Thunderbird was equipped with a electronically operated soft top and a solid hardtop to keep the car warm in winters. On the 1956 model the hardtop was fitted with an oval window which would become characteristic for the Thunderbird. The 1956 model also had a bumper mounted spare tire whereas on the 1955 and 1957 model the spare wheel was in the trunk.

The first series was the only two seater Thunderbird until the introduction of the 2002 Thunderbird, which makes the first series the most desirable of all Thunderbirds. Ford's answer to the Corvette outsold the Corvette many times. (Specs are for the 1955 model). Page 1 of 1